Research Proposal

Here you will finds tips on how to write a research proposal. The advice is predominantly for already active doctoral students applying for funding.

A complete research proposal is usually between 5–15 pages (including figures, tables and bibliography). When applying to the PhD Programme you seldom already have a complete research proposal, so a short description of the intended research area and as much information as possible is sufficient (3–5 pages).

1. Abstract

Maximum one page, covering items 2–4 below and including the title of the project, the name of the author and the degree aimed at.

2. Project description, scientific contribution and statement of objective

Describe as detailed as possible:

the research front within the particular niche of the scientific field you have chosen for your project. The description should include references to relevant sources, be substantial enough to enable an evaluation of the relevance and intended contribution of the project, and lead to a well-structured problem description.
The scientific objective and the intended contribution in relation to the description of the niche and research problem.

3. Operationalization of the objective, description of empirical material, method(s) and analytical strategy

Describe:

the procedure(s) and methods permitting empirical measurement of the problem dimensions that the statement of objective comprises, and
the proposed empirical material and the analytical strategy to be used. Depending on the stage of the project this section may vary in length. The approach to the problem should nevertheless be dealt with at least in outline.

4. Time schedule and financial plan
Present:

the current state of the project in relation to items 2 and 3 above,
a detailed plan of the subsections that will be completed during each academic year/semester,
an indication of the total study time, including the amount of full and part time work during different phases of the project, and
a financial plan, including a description of already received funding or funding already applied for.

Adhere to Hankens guidelines for reference techniques and the use of artificial intelligence into account when preparing your research plan.